Step 3: Neutralize. Create a thick paste out of baking soda and water. Apply to the spill to absorb it. Wait 1 or 2 minutes. Wipe up the mixture with paper towel and immediately put the soiled paper towel in the plastic bag. Apply another layer of the baking soda paste.
Causes of Bare Spots in the Lawn. Bare spots in your lawn can be the result of heavy foot traffic (causing soil compaction), drought, disease, chemical burn and weed or insect infestation. Before beginning repairs, you need to determine the source of your problem.
Leaf Smut. In the early spring or late fall reddish-brown to purplish-black spots with pale centers on grass blades are caused by leaf spot fungi. The spots develop on the blades, stems and crowns. Eventually the blades shrivel, crowns and roots rot and die and then irregular patches of thin grass develop in the lawn.